Florida Hard Money Loan Application Checklist

Streamline your loan application process with our comprehensive checklist. Prepare all required documents and information to ensure fast approval and closing for your Florida investment property.

Pre-Application Checklist

Complete these steps before submitting your loan application to ensure a smooth and efficient approval process.

Before You Apply

  • Determine your investment strategy and goals
  • Identify target property or investment area
  • Calculate expected returns and cash flow
  • Establish budget including all costs
  • Build relationship with real estate agent
  • Connect with contractors and property manager

Financial Preparation

  • Gather 3-6 months of bank statements
  • Organize tax returns (if required)
  • Compile asset documentation
  • Calculate debt-to-income ratios
  • Verify credit score and report
  • Prepare proof of funds documentation

Property Research

  • Analyze comparable sales and rentals
  • Research neighborhood trends
  • Verify zoning and land use
  • Check HOA restrictions and fees
  • Review property taxes and assessments
  • Identify potential issues or repairs needed

Application Process

  • Complete loan application accurately
  • Submit all required documents
  • Respond promptly to lender requests
  • Schedule property inspection/appraisal
  • Review loan terms and conditions
  • Prepare for closing requirements

Loan-Specific Requirements

Different loan types have specific documentation requirements. Choose your loan type below to see the complete checklist.

Fix & Flip Loans

Short-term financing for property renovation and resale

Personal Documentation

  • Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
  • Social Security Number
  • Last 2 months bank statements for all accounts
  • Proof of liquid assets/reserves
  • Credit report (we can pull this for you)
  • Previous real estate experience summary

Property Information

  • Purchase contract or property address
  • Property photos (current condition)
  • Preliminary title report or title commitment
  • Property insurance quote
  • Recent comparable sales (comps) in the area
  • Estimated after-repair value (ARV) appraisal

Project Details

  • Detailed scope of work and renovation plans
  • Contractor estimates and licenses
  • Construction timeline and milestones
  • Project budget breakdown
  • Permit requirements and applications
  • Exit strategy and sale timeline

DSCR Loans

Rental property loans based on property cash flow

Personal Documentation

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Social Security Number
  • Last 2 months bank statements
  • Proof of funds for down payment
  • Credit report authorization
  • Real estate investment experience

Property Information

  • Purchase contract or property details
  • Current or projected rent roll
  • Lease agreements (if tenant occupied)
  • Property management information
  • Recent rental comparables (rent comps)
  • Property tax and insurance estimates

Financial Analysis

  • DSCR calculation worksheet
  • Property operating expense estimates
  • Vacancy factor assumptions
  • Market rent analysis
  • Cap rate calculations
  • Cash flow projections

Bridge Loans

Temporary financing between property transactions

Personal Documentation

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Recent bank statements (2-3 months)
  • Proof of income or assets
  • Credit report authorization
  • Investment experience documentation
  • Personal financial statement

Current Property

  • Current property deed or ownership proof
  • Recent appraisal or BPO
  • Property tax statements
  • Current mortgage statements
  • Property insurance declarations
  • Rental income documentation (if applicable)

New Property

  • Purchase contract or LOI
  • Property information and photos
  • Preliminary title work
  • Insurance quotes
  • Financing timeline requirements
  • Exit strategy documentation

Application Tips for Faster Approval

✅ Do This

  • • Submit complete applications with all documents
  • • Respond to lender requests within 24 hours
  • • Have backup documentation readily available
  • • Work with experienced real estate professionals
  • • Be realistic about timelines and budgets
  • • Maintain good communication throughout process

❌ Avoid This

  • • Submitting incomplete or unclear documents
  • • Making large financial changes during process
  • • Waiting until last minute to gather information
  • • Underestimating renovation costs or timelines
  • • Ignoring lender communications or deadlines
  • • Applying for other credit during loan process

Timeline Expectations

1

Day 1-2

Application submission and initial review

2

Day 3-5

Property appraisal and valuation

3

Day 6-10

Final underwriting and approval

4

Day 10-14

Closing preparation and funding

Ready to Start Your Application?

Use this checklist to prepare your documentation, then submit your application for fast approval. Our experienced team will guide you through each step of the process.

Need Help Getting Started?

Our loan specialists can review your situation and help you determine which loan type is best for your investment strategy.

Fast Approval

Get approved in as little as 24-48 hours

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Competitive Rates

Best-in-class rates for qualified borrowers

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Expert Support

Dedicated loan specialists guide you through